Patents Assigned to Penn State Research Foundation and Biotechnology Research and Development Corporation
  • Patent number: 5397896
    Abstract: Multiple frequency sources are used to apply a time varying signal to a scanning tunneling microscope and a current or voltage passing between the electrodes of the microscope is measured by a microwave spectrum/network analyzer which detects simultaneously at the multiple input frequencies and combinations thereof. This permits multiple substances to be monitored simultaneously. By choosing appropriate frequencies of input signals to be mixed or combined before application to the sample, it is possible to measure at a difference frequency which may improve signal to noise ratio and possible to match generating and reaction potentials and relaxation times to render detection possible. When applied to an array of Coulomb blockade devices used as a current standard, accuracy of the standard can be tested and the signal-to-noise ratio can be improved in the measurements, or the thresholds of the devices can be detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Assignee: Penn State Research Foundation and Biotechnology Research and Development Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Weiss, Stephen J. Stranick